Feeding your child can be fun, but it can also be tricky! Children can go through picky phases and growth spurts. So how do you know if they’re getting the right nutrition—especially if they have a health condition?  Learning how to read a food label can help you make the best choices for your child. 

Serving Size:  

It’s easy to pour a big bowl of cereal or a tall glass of orange juice, but serving sizes on food labels tell us what is considered the right amount for one sitting. Most food labels list serving sizes for adults, but toddler foods will have portions made for smaller children. Some children may need more or less than the amount on the label. If you’re unsure how much to serve, talk to your child’s doctor or an Imagine Pediatrics dietitian. 

Calories:  

Calories measure how much energy food gives your child. Every child needs a different number of calories based on their age, weight, and activity level. A dietitian can help figure out what’s right for your child.  

Nutrients: 

Not all calories are the same! Different nutrients provide different types of energy. 

• Carbohydrates: These are sugars. Some sugars, like those in fruit and milk, are natural. Others are added to food during processing. Fiber is also a type of carbohydrate and is important for digestion. Some conditions, like diabetes may create a need to track your child’s carbohydrate intake. 
• Protein: Protein helps build muscle and is lower in calories than fat. Some children with certain health conditions, like kidney disease, may need to limit protein. If you’re unsure, check with your child’s doctor or an Imagine Pediatrics dietitian. 
• Fats: Some fats, like essential fatty acids, are healthy and great for brain development. Others, like trans fats, can be unhealthy. Trans fats are listed separately on food labels, and should be easy to spot. 
• Vitamins and Minerals: These are listed under nutrients. The percentage (%) tells you how much of your child’s daily need is in that food. Eating a variety of foods helps kids get the vitamins and minerals they need. Some children may need more or less of certain nutrients, like vitamin D or sodium. Your child’s doctor or dietitian can help you figure out what’s best. 

Ingredients: 

Ingredients are the things that are used to make the food. They are listed in order from the largest to the smallest amount. For example, if the first ingredient in corn chips is “corn,” that means the chips are mostly made of corn. Some ingredients, like “partially hydrogenated oil,” mean the food is highly processed. Eating too many processed foods over time can lead to health problems. Fresh fruits and vegetables are not processed and are some of the healthiest foods for kids! 

By understanding food labels, you can make choices that help your child grow strong and healthy! If you have questions, reach out to your child’s doctor or an Imagine Pediatrics dietitian.  

We are here to help!

Imagine Pediatrics is dedicated to improving the health and lives of children with special health care needs. We provide 24/7 virtual and in-home care and support. We don’t replace your child’s current care team. We work with them to give your child more access to the high-quality care they need, whenever they need it – right from home. Our services are often at no cost if they are part of your child’s existing health plan benefits. Learn more about us here or call us (833) 208-7770.